Introducing the latest Sew House Seven pattern, the Revel Topper! A simple top with three versions and some unique details to keep your basics interesting. It can be worn as a short boxy top, but it's also just long enough to tuck into a high to mid-rise bottom. The Revel Topper was designed for woven fabrics that aren't too structured such as linen, linen/viscose blends and other fabrics with some drape such as flowy cotton voile, silk charmeuse, you get the idea. 

In true Peggy fashion, I'm finally release yet another pattern that was started years ago. In fact, I had a photoshoot back in late 2019, right before the pandemic shut everything down. At that time, the pattern had only one version (version A) and had gone through a round of pattern testing. I wasn't happy with it and put all of the edits aside and forgot about it. However, once I shared a photo of it with the release of the Oxbow Pants, I had numerous people emailing to ask about it. So, I decided to pull it out of hiding and start reworking it. And now there are two more versions to add to it. 

 

As I mentioned above, there are three versions. All versions feature a cut-on shawl collar and yoke-like collar facing. The collar facing can be attached from the inside or outside of the front allowing for either a more concealed construction or a purposeful yoke with the opportunity for color blocking, pattern mixing, embroidery, etc.  However, I've attached photo examples below that show how the collar facing shows up as a finished product if you choose to use contrast fabric.

So it all started with Version A. A sleeveless, boxy top that features angled bust darts and a shawl collar. The fit is fairly loose through the bust and waist. The sleeveless armholes fall off the shoulders and become short sleeves with deep facings that are stitched down.

Version A in linen from Fabricstore.com

 

View A in linen/viscose blend from Lyrical Fabrics

 

Because I know many people are uncomfortable showing bare arms, I created Version B. It's the same cut and fit as version A, although it has a slightly longer and narrower cut-on sleeve with a wide cuff that lands just above the elbow.

 

Version B in a very light-weight, loose weave chambray linen from Linen Lab (I think)

 

 

Version B in light-weight, block printed cotton voile

 

And lastly, just for fun, I created Version C. A modified poncho with wide, bracelet length sleeves. This version is very loose fitting and does not have darts.

Version C in Ice dyed linen/viscose by Frances Felt Textile Designs

Isn't this fabric so gorgeous?! by Frances Felt Textile Designs

 

 

Version C in linen/viscose from Lyrical Fabrics

 

Note that the versions made in viscose appear a little looser and larger than those made in straight linen or cotton. It all depends upon your preferred look and fit, but I will advise against using a tightly woven cotton such as quilting cotton. The garment just won't fit as well and the French seams and angle of the neck/shoulder point will be difficult to sew without the forgiveness of a looser weave. 

 

And here are a few photos from the original 2019 photoshoot. Time flies!

Tune in for the Revel Topper sewing tutorial - coming within the next few weeks. And look out for tester versions on Instagram #reveltopper . 

XOXO,

Peggy